Keeping Everyone Safe on Our Roads – Together
You may have seen recent headlines about proposals (Click here to read) that could require motorists over the age of 70 to take compulsory eyesight tests to keep their driving licence. These changes are expected to be part of a new government road safety strategy due this autumn.
At the Older Drivers Forum, our focus has always been on helping people drive safely for as long as possible. We know how important driving is for independence, connection, and daily life. We also know that safety must come first – for drivers, passengers, and everyone else on the road. That’s why we support measures that make our roads safer for all.
We have worked closely with families who have lost loved ones due to collisions involving drivers whose vision was no longer safe for driving. These heartbreaking stories remind us that change is needed.
Why vision matters so much for driving
Nearly 90% of the information we use when driving comes through our eyes. If we can’t see hazards clearly, we can’t react in time. The challenge is that eyesight can deteriorate gradually, often without us realising. We simply adapt without noticing the loss.
The law requires all drivers to meet the ‘Standards of Vision’, which include:
- Reading a number plate from 20 metres
- Having a visual acuity of at least 6/12 on the Snellen scale
- Maintaining an adequate field of vision
Currently, most drivers only have their eyesight checked once – at their driving test. The simple number plate check does not measure visual acuity or field of vision. This means that many people may be driving without realising they no longer meet the legal standard.
Compared with other European countries, the UK is among the most relaxed when it comes to vision and driving rules. That’s why we’ve long called for mandatory optometrist eye tests for all drivers – when applying for a licence, every 10 years when renewing it, and again from age 70 onwards.
This isn’t about taking away licences – it’s about keeping people driving safely for longer
If someone’s vision doesn’t meet the standard, they can often get it corrected with new glasses, contact lenses, or treatment. Just like we MOT our cars, we need to make sure we also “MOT” ourselves for safety.
Research shows that after age 70, people are more likely to fall below the legal vision standard. Most mature drivers already get regular tests – but a small number either skip them or continue driving despite unsafe vision. Mandatory testing is the fairest and safest way to ensure everyone on the road meets the same standards.
It’s also worth remembering: from age 60, you’re entitled to a free NHS eye test every two years (and if you have certain medical conditions or receive certain benefits).
Looking at the bigger picture
We have an ageing population, with over 200,000 more drivers aged 70+ on the roads than a few years ago. While older drivers are generally among the safest, statistics show an increase in fatalities for this age group. We’ve published a detailed analysis comparing younger and older driver safety – you can read it here: Click here
Our Chair, Rob Heard MBE, along with many of our volunteers and researchers, have been sharing these messages in TV and radio interviews, including BBC Breakfast today (11/08/25) – watch from 8.30am here: Click here to view.
Our commitment to you
We want every driver to keep the freedom and independence that comes from driving – for as long as it’s safe. That’s why we’re working hard to make sure changes to the law are fair, practical, and supportive. Driving safely isn’t just about believing we’re safe – it’s about taking action to make sure we truly are.
Rob Heard speaking with Gordon Smart on BBC Morning Live
Older Drivers Forum 